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Brigadier General Randal Dragon is out to make sure
that within the boundaries of US Division-South every soldier has a common level of support.
Everything from showers to dining facility, refrigeration, dry storage, medical facilities,
command and control--everything that should be out here for the long term.
[McCabe] Dragon and his team are checking sites
that range from large combat operating bases to smaller combat outposts or patrol bases.
All are austere, some are basic--even spartan. [female speaker] A lot of these bases that
we're visiting are very small. They're out here to do missions--
real-world missions--and they just need a little extra support.
[McCabe] USD-South is about the size of Washington State,
approximately 68,000 square miles, 9 provinces spread over a geography of marshes,
desert, farmland, and cities. So whether it's a larger COB,
moderate size COS, or even a smaller COL, the objective is the
same. Every location being inspected has been identified
as one that will stay beyond the initial drawdown deadline and is
partnered with an Iraqi counterpart. For their part, the 1st ID team is focused
on virtually everything a soldier needs: medical, power, morale and recreation, quarters--both
for sleeping and hygiene. If you are uncomfortable, you're probably
going to have challenges supporting or performing to the best of your ability.
[McCabe] USD-South is well under way with its part of drawing down
and turning back to Iraq those areas deemed ready.
And where required, US soldiers will stay as long as needed,
knowing that their quality of life is as good as it can get.
[Dragon] The bottom line is it's all about taking care of soldiers.
Gail McCabe, Iraq. [♪upbeat music♪] That's the Army Today
from Soldiers Radio and Television, Atlanta.